Crystal Palace Women started their Women's Super League season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Everton on Tuesday. Lexi Lloyd-Smith's 34th-minute strike proved decisive, handing the Eagles their third ever top-flight win as they returned to the WSL.
The match saw manager Jo Potter's side begin their campaign with three vital points. They currently sit six points behind early leaders Manchester City.
Lexi Lloyd-Smith, the 23-year-old forward, scored the only goal of the game just after the half-hour mark. Her finish settled a tight contest and gave Palace a platform to build upon. Goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin, making her debut for the club, was instrumental in preserving the lead with a clean sheet.
Everton pushed for an equaliser and created several chances. Abbie Larkin came close for the visitors when her long-range effort struck the crossbar. In the dying moments of extra-time, Bethany England was forced to make a key goal-line clearance to ensure the three points remained in South London.
Beyond the goalscorer and goalkeeper, several players made important contributions. Only two players from Palace's last WSL2 match, Aimee Everett and Annabel Blanchard, were named in the starting lineup. Brighton loanee Fūka Tsunoda also featured, adding experience to the midfield.
Manager Jo Potter will be pleased with the defensive resilience shown, especially after conceding eight goals in their first three league games this season. The team's overall defensive shape limited Everton's clear opportunities, a marked improvement from their early-season form which shows a -4 goal difference.
The victory provides a massive confidence boost ahead of a daunting fixture. Crystal Palace Women play their next game at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, 13 September. That match forms part of a challenging start to the campaign, with fans able to track the full fixtures schedule on our site.
Securing a win in their opening match is a significant step for a side looking to establish itself in the top flight. The performance demonstrated a solid foundation, combining a clinical moment in attack with determined defending. The current standings show the competitive nature of the league, and every point will be vital in the battle for position.
Potter has a blend of experience and youth at her disposal. The decision to leave Ashleigh Weerden on the bench against Everton indicates depth in certain positions. Supporters can view the full roster and player details on the official squad page.
The team has scored four goals so far this season, and finding a consistent source of goals beyond Lloyd-Smith will be a focus. The immediate challenge is to build on this result and prepare for the trip to face one of the league's strongest sides at the weekend. Crystal Palace Women's next match is on Sunday, 13 September at the Emirates.
